Importance Score: 20 / 100 🔵
Hydrangeas, celebrated for their refined appearance, are often considered excellent and uncomplicated companion plants. Companion planting involves cultivating different species in proximity to leverage mutual benefits. While one plant might offer more advantages to its neighbor, this dynamic can shift based on the plant varieties involved.
The most important consideration when selecting companion plants is ensuring they will flourish under similar conditions to hydrangeas. It’s crucial to avoid placing them near plants that could potentially harm them. Gardening authorities John Toepfer and Susan Brandt from Blooming Secrets recommend certain plants that hydrangeas “will love,” helping them “grow stronger, bigger, and better” and generally “thrive,” for those seeking to enrich their hydrangea displays.
Ideal Companions for Hydrangeas
1. Azaleas
Azaleas and hydrangeas create a superb garden partnership. Both flourish in acidic, well-drained soil and areas with plentiful shade. Significantly, they complement the preference of blue hydrangeas for moderately acidic soil.
However, pairing them with pink hydrangeas, which favor more alkaline soil, is not advisable. When combined with hydrangeas, which typically flower throughout the summer, these plants ensure “season-long flowers.”
Furthermore, azaleas exhibit resistance to both pests and diseases, positioning them as suitable companions for any acid-loving species, including hydrangeas.
2. Hostas
Hostas are an outstanding match for hydrangeas. Both thrive in partially shaded environments and prefer somewhat acidic soil.
According to John and Susan, hostas are “one of the best plants for low-light areas” and function as a “natural foil,” protecting the delicate hydrangea blooms from harsh elements.
3. Perennial Geraniums
Perennial geraniums, also known as cranesbill, are available in purple, pink, or white shades, reminiscent of standard annual geraniums.
A true gardening favorite, these geraniums necessitate minimal care and become self-supporting upon establishing themselves.
Consider Coral Bells
- Pairing hydrangeas with coral bells, as the varieties “thrive in the same conditions” and are regarded as “great companion plants for hydrangeas,” is also a good choice.
- Both hydrangeas and perennial geraniums require consistently moist, well-drained soil that avoids excessive saturation.